An emergency medicine overview of GBL intoxication in the context of chemsex. Gareth Roberts discusses recognition, respiratory depression, co-ingestion and the challenges of airway management, alongside the need to consider consent, safeguarding and sexual health support as patients recover.
GBL Overdose and what to do about it Read More
This 2019 overview examines the emergency assessment of decompensated liver disease, from recognising deterioration and investigating its cause to managing major complications. It brings together infection, kidney injury, gastrointestinal bleeding and encephalopathy within a structured care-bundle approach.
Decompensated Liver Disease and what we can do about it in the ED Read More
This 2018 overview explores HIV in emergency medicine, from assessing exposure and recognising infection to caring for people receiving antiretroviral therapy. It also introduces post-exposure and pre-exposure prophylaxis. The discussion reflects the guidance available at publication and should be read in that historical context.
PEP, PrEP and all things HIV Read More
Gareth reflects on preparing a CESR application after taking a non-standard route through emergency medicine training. This 2018 account explores gathering evidence, documenting competence and navigating portfolio requirements, with Natalie May adding her experience of specialist recognition in Australia.
Et tu, Brute? One mans battle with CESR. St Emlyn’s Read More
Is paracetamol alone enough for pain after minor musculoskeletal injury? This 2017 review examines a randomised non-inferiority trial comparing paracetamol, diclofenac and their combination. It explores pain outcomes, trial design and exclusions, including why the findings cannot simply be extended to fractures or all painful injuries.
JC : Paracetamol, NSAID’s or both in MSK trauma. St.Emlyn’s Read More
Could routine HIV testing make emergency care a stronger public-health opportunity? This 2017 discussion examines the rationale behind NICE’s 2016 guidance, including local prevalence, consent and follow-up. It considers how ED screening might reach people who do not attend sexual-health services and reduce barriers to diagnosis.
HIV screening in the ED. When, who and why. St.Emlyn’s Read More
